Alabama linebacker Tim Williams to return for senior year

Alabama outside linebacker Tim Williams will be back for one final season.

Alabama outside linebacker Tim Williams will be back for one final season.

Williams announced on Twitter Wednesday that he would return to help the Crimson Tide in its national championship defense. He had been weighing entering the NFL draft. Williams made 10.5 sacks and added four quarterback hurries for Alabama this season, working in a situational role.

Williams told reporters Saturday that the NFL draft advisory committee gave him a late first round/early second round grade, but that head coach Nick Saban was among those advising him to return to school and play in a more frequent on-field role.

Alabama loses starting outside linebackers Denzel Devall and Dillon Lee for next season, but will now return Williams and Ryan Anderson, a redshirt junior, plus sophomore Rashaan Evans.

• Celebrate Alabama's national title with SI's commemorative package

Alabama defeated Clemson 45–40 on Monday for the program’s 16th national championship.